Published: Monday - December 17, 2007
Words by Donny Goines
Blog by Donny Goines (Photo: Don Michaels)
The other day I was finishing up some recording at my dude Ariel's spot (Westward Production, hands down one of the best in the game) and we were just talking about dudes who don't take their studio sessions serious. I told him I was going to write a blog about this topic because people really need to know some do's and don't's of recording sessions.
I always like to start with the negative aspect of things (sometimes it makes sense to hear the bad information first, so it doesn't damper the good), so here we go. First and foremost, DON'T BE LATE!!!!!!! It's your money and time you're wasting, so this is just common sense. Secondly, you need to arrive prepared. Unless your a seasoned vet (and even they need practice), you don't want to come half ass. Have all you music written, ideas thought out, etc. and come ready to work. Third, don't get wasted. I know, I know, the weed and liquor helps with you "creative process," but do that sh-- on your off time. The truth of the matter is these things will cloud your judgement and really are an unnecessary thing to have during recording. The fourth thing you should avoid, leave the crew on the block. You don't need a bunch of yes men around you and the truth is this is just a distraction (same thing applies for women, impress your date another time). Bring only the people you need to or at least friends that know how to shut up. And finally, don't be lazy. You may have to do several takes of a verse before you get it right. Don't have a nonchalant attitude about it.
Now that we spoke on some of the things you SHOULDN'T do, now lets speak on some things you should. Listen to your engineer. Obviously if you're at a studio you need some kind or help or direction, otherwise you wouldn't be there so keep an open ear and mind. Something else that is important in the studio is professionalism. The engineer is not your friend (and even if he is business is business) and you're not there to socialize. Focus on the task at hand and carry yourself accordingly. Another thing you should do learn from your mistakes. With Ariel's guidance in the studio and my own observations, I was able to greatly improve my craft in a relatively short amount of time. Pay attention to all the details and study your mannerisms and habits, so you can really become a better artist. One last thing I would also suggest is focus more on getting the job done right then getting it done fast. If it takes you 10 hours to lay down one song fine, as long as the song is executed and fine tuned to the best of your abilities that's all that counts. Quality over quanitity.
When I'm in the studio with Ariel, we shoot the breeze, laugh and joke, whatever, but regardless of that, we ALWAYS make sure that the work is done. The engineers main job requirement is to track and mix your music. Everything else is up to you, so if go in with a good work ethic, you'll come out with great music. Come in with a sh--ty one and you'll leave with... I'm sure you get the point.
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